The 2021 Fall Festival of the Arts is Dedicated to Founder Donald Hinkle

In 1977, Donald Hinkle, Director of Music at Trinity Lutheran Church, in Reading, PA, planted the seeds for what is now known as the Fall Festival of the Arts. His goal was to provide an offering of the arts for the entire surrounding community to enjoy. At its inception, it began with the E. Power Biggs Memorial Organ Recital.  

In addition to the organ recital, every other year a guest conductor was brought in to conduct a major choral work with a chorus and orchestra made up of area singers and instrumentalists. On alternate years, an outstanding performing group was engaged to provide an evening program.

In 1985, Trinity Lutheran Church and Christ Episcopal Church signed a covenant calling for the support and cooperation of the two covenant congregations in their ongoing mission and program.  As a result of this special relationship, the Fall Festival of the Arts was born. The Festival expanded in scope to include dramatic productions, musical productions, and art exhibits featuring local artists with paintings, crafts, photography, and sculptures.

As the years have continued, Poetry Readings and well known choral and instrumental groups from outside the area have been added to represent all the arts.

Donald’s original vision of enjoyment and enrichment for the surrounding community far exceeded his expectations of the Festival. It could not have been achieved without countless hours donated by volunteer members of the committee from the two churches and the community, for which he was always grateful.

Donald passed away in April of 2020, but his goal of offering celebration and thanksgiving for the many God-given gifts and talents shared in the Fall Festival of the Arts continues to this day.

Help Us Carry On Donald’s Vision

Make a donation to the Fall Festival of the Arts here.